New Fund at Community Foundation to

Benefit Agriculture Students

April 7, 2008: Middletown resident William “Gene” Barnhart has a lifelong commitment to farming. His earliest memories are of his parents, Evelyn and Ernest, farming their land during the tough times of the Depression. From a young age, Gene helped his parents sustain their livelihood.

His love of farming, armed with a concern that farming should continue to thrive in Frederick County, created a desire to help others to become successful farmers. “I just didn’t quite know how to help, though,” said Mr. Barnhart.

A conversation with his financial advisor prompted Gene to consider charitable giving as a way to make a difference. After considered deliberation, Gene felt that the guidance and expertise of The Community Foundation of Frederick County would be the most beneficial way to help others with his unique charitable dream.

That’s when he established The Gene, Evelyn, and Ernest Barnhart Family Scholarship Fund, which will aid graduates of Frederick County Public Schools who are studying agriculture or a related field at The University of Maryland.

“So many farms are being sold to developers and we are slowly losing an important way of life, and industry, in Frederick County, “ Mr. Barnhart said. “The Gene, Evelyn, and Ernest Barnhart Family Scholarship Fund at the Community Foundation not only honors the legacy of my parents, but it is my way of helping to encourage interested students in becoming good farmers.”

The first scholarships from the Fund will be awarded in June, 2008.

Gene Barnhart is one of the many generous citizens seeking to create positive and lasting change through philanthropy by working with the Community Foundation to create funds that provide scholarships to deserving students and grants to area nonprofits serving people in need. Because of the trust donors have placed in the Community Foundation, over $17 million has been returned to the Frederick County community since 1986.

Those interested in helping students in pursuing a career in agriculture may make a secure online donation to The Gene, Evelyn, and Ernest Barnhart Family Scholarship Fund.  To do so, click here. Donations by check, with the Fund’s name inserted in the memo line, may be made payable to The Community Foundation of Frederick County and mailed to 312 East Church Street, Frederick, Maryland 21701. All donations are tax-exempt to the fullest extent of the law. Additional information about the Community Foundation is available by calling 301.695.7660.